The Public Law that authorized the George Washington Carver - Booker T. Washington commemorative coin program stated that all proceeds derived from coin sales "shall be used...by the Booker T. Washington Birthplace Memorial and the George Washington Carver National Monument Foundation to oppose the spread of communism among Negroes in the interest of the national defense." It did not, however, provide further details on how this was to be accomplished.
Sidney J. Phillips, the President of the Booker T. Washington Birthplace Memorial and the George Washington Carver National Monument Foundation - and primary driver behind the coins - later revealed more details about how the funds derived from coin sales were to be used to support the plan:
Note: Phillips' outline is presented as published in 1954; it includes references that are obsolete today."1. To sponsor and conduct a series of activities designed to inculate American ideals that will help to develop negro youth into strong, dependable Americans.
"2. To expose the Negro masses to a program of solid Americanism that will counteract Communist propaganda and offer educational advancement in American ideals and principles.
"3. To work towards the eradication of poverty and want among the underprivileged Negro since such conditions breed discontent, unrest, and poor Americanism.
"4. To work towards increasing a sense of pride and interest among Negroes in all projects designed for community betterment as being essential to the progressive American way of life.
"5. To contribute towards improved living by stressing the dignity and worth of the individual.
"6. To do everything within our power to make the Negro aware of the great opportunities which our land offers; to develop pride in his heritage as an American; to have him realize his responsibility to improve, to guard, and cherish his American birthright."Sales of the half dollars lagged - though not due to lack of promotional effort! - so the widespread impact of the planned programs never reached the hoped for levels among the African-American community.
1951-54 George Washington Carver-Booker T Washington National Memorials Half Dollar
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more about GWC-BTW commemorative coins, see:
Commems Collection
Posted 01/05/2026 08:30 am
Uncirculated American Silver Eagles 
